India, July 4 -- Neeraj Chopra conquered the javelin world with his remarkable performances but the idea of giving back to Indian athletics beyond the pursuit of personal glory took root gradually. That vision was shaped by the lessons and experiences he had gathered on international stage. On the eve of the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic, he felt a deep sense of fulfilment.

Few understand better than him the importance of hosting a World Athletics Gold-level meet in India. It holds the potential to be a gamechanger. Indian throwers can compete and learn from the best in the world, fans can witness world-class athletics and a cricket-obsessed nation can discover the thrill of an Olympic sport.

"I never dreamt about it," said Neeraj. "I...